The identity of Ed Dufresne’s first spouse is a topic of interest for those researching his personal history. Genealogical research frequently involves uncovering such connections to build a complete picture of an individual’s life and family tree. This process often requires examining various records, such as marriage certificates, census data, and other public documents.
Understanding the familial relationships of historical figures adds depth to biographical studies. It illuminates the social context in which they lived and may offer insights into their motivations and influences. This information can be particularly relevant when studying individuals involved in public life, business, or other areas where family connections might have played a role. Such investigations often contribute to a richer understanding of the past.
Further exploration of Dufresne’s life and times can reveal the historical context surrounding his first marriage. Investigating the era, societal norms, and his personal circumstances could offer valuable insights into this aspect of his life and provide a more complete understanding of his biography.
1. Genealogical Records
Genealogical records serve as the foundation for tracing family histories and are essential in uncovering information about individuals like Ed Dufresne’s first wife. These records offer potential pathways to her identity and provide context surrounding their marriage.
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Vital Records
Birth, marriage, and death certificates are primary sources in genealogical research. A marriage certificate would definitively identify Dufresne’s first wife, providing her name, the date of the marriage, and potentially the location. Birth certificates of their children might further corroborate this information and provide additional details about her maiden name and parentage.
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Census Records
Census records offer snapshots of households at specific points in time. Locating Dufresne in these records could reveal his marital status and the names of household members, potentially including his wife. Comparing census data across different years can help track changes in family composition and residence.
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Church Records
Depending on the time period and location, church records often document significant life events, including marriages and baptisms. If Dufresne and his wife were members of a particular church, these records might contain valuable information about their marriage and family life.
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Obituaries and Cemetery Records
Obituaries can mention surviving family members, including spouses. Cemetery records might list individuals buried together, potentially indicating familial relationships. These sources can be helpful in corroborating information gleaned from other records.
By systematically examining these various genealogical records, researchers can piece together information about Ed Dufresne’s first wife, potentially uncovering her identity, her family background, and the circumstances surrounding their marriage. This information contributes to a broader understanding of Dufresne’s life and the historical context in which he lived.
2. Marriage Certificates
Marriage certificates hold crucial importance in genealogical research, particularly when seeking to identify an individual’s spouse, as in the case of Ed Dufresne’s first wife. These legal documents provide a verifiable record of the marital union, offering key details that can definitively establish the identity of a spouse. A marriage certificate pertaining to Dufresne’s first marriage would explicitly name his wife, the date of the marriage, and the location where the marriage took place. This information serves as a foundational piece of evidence in confirming her identity and the timeframe of their marriage. For example, if multiple potential spouses are identified through other records, the marriage certificate provides conclusive proof.
Beyond simply naming the spouse, marriage certificates can offer additional clues about an individual’s history. Depending on the jurisdiction and time period, these certificates might include details about the couple’s ages, places of birth, parents’ names, occupations, and even witness signatures. Such information can prove invaluable in building a more comprehensive profile of Dufresne’s first wife and her family background. This added context allows researchers to expand their investigation beyond just a name, exploring potential connections to other families and communities.
Locating and accessing relevant marriage certificates often requires careful research. Historical records can be fragmented, incomplete, or difficult to access. Researchers might need to consult various archives, government offices, or online databases depending on where and when the marriage occurred. Challenges can arise from variations in record-keeping practices over time and across different jurisdictions. Nonetheless, the information contained within a marriage certificate, if found, often proves invaluable in definitively answering the question of who Ed Dufresne’s first wife was, and provides a significant stepping stone for further genealogical exploration.
3. Census Data
Census data provides a valuable resource for genealogical research, offering snapshots of households at specific points in time. In the search for information about Ed Dufresne’s first wife, census records could offer critical clues. These records may not explicitly state marital relationships, but they can place individuals within a specific household and location, providing circumstantial evidence that supports or refutes other findings.
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Household Composition
Census records list the members of a household, including their names, ages, and relationships to the head of the household. Locating Dufresne in a census record alongside a woman of appropriate age could suggest a marital relationship. The presence of children further strengthens this inference. For example, a 1920 census record showing Dufresne living with a woman and several children bearing his surname might provide strong circumstantial evidence of his marital status and family structure.
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Geographic Location
Census data reveals an individual’s place of residence at specific times. This information can be used to narrow the search for other records, such as marriage certificates, within the correct jurisdiction. If census records place Dufresne in a particular county or state, researchers can focus their efforts on finding corresponding marriage records within that region.
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Changes Over Time
Comparing census records across different years reveals changes in household composition, geographic location, and other details. This information can be particularly helpful in tracking the progression of a family unit. For instance, if a woman appears in Dufresne’s household in one census but is absent in a later one, it could suggest a divorce or death, requiring further investigation into corresponding records.
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Corroboration with Other Records
Census information rarely provides definitive proof of marriage, but it can be used to corroborate evidence found in other records. For example, a marriage certificate might indicate a marriage date and location. Finding Dufresne and his purported wife living together in the same location shortly after that date in a census record reinforces the validity of the marriage certificate.
While census data alone may not definitively identify Ed Dufresne’s first wife, it offers valuable contextual information. When combined with other genealogical resources, such as marriage certificates, vital records, and family histories, census data contributes significantly to building a more complete picture of Dufresne’s life and familial relationships, potentially revealing the identity of his first spouse. It provides a framework for understanding where and with whom he lived, allowing researchers to focus their search for other records and build a more accurate and comprehensive family history.
4. Public Records
Public records offer a wealth of information for genealogical research, serving as a crucial resource for investigations into family histories. In the case of identifying Ed Dufresne’s first wife, exploring various public records can provide essential clues and potentially definitive proof. These records, created and maintained by government agencies and other institutions, document significant life events and personal details, offering valuable insights into individuals’ lives and relationships.
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Court Records
Court records, including divorce decrees, probate records, and legal disputes, can offer valuable insights into familial relationships. A divorce decree pertaining to Ed Dufresne would definitively name his spouse and provide the date of the divorce. Probate records, documenting the distribution of assets after death, can also list heirs and family members, potentially including a surviving spouse. Legal disputes involving family matters might further illuminate relationships and offer clues about Dufresne’s marital history.
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Land Records
Property deeds and land records can reveal ownership patterns and familial connections. If Dufresne and his wife jointly owned property, these records would document their shared ownership and confirm their marital status. Changes in land ownership over time, such as the transfer of property to a surviving spouse, can also provide valuable information.
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Military Records
If Ed Dufresne served in the military, his military records might contain information about his marital status and dependents. These records often list next of kin and beneficiaries, potentially including a spouse. Military records can also provide details about place of residence and other personal information relevant to the search.
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Immigration and Naturalization Records
If Dufresne or his wife were immigrants, immigration and naturalization records could offer details about their arrival in the country, place of origin, and family members who accompanied them. These records might also document changes in marital status and family composition over time.
By thoroughly examining these diverse public records, researchers can potentially uncover definitive proof of Ed Dufresne’s first marriage and the identity of his wife. The information gleaned from these records can corroborate evidence found in other sources, such as genealogical databases and family histories, providing a more complete and accurate understanding of Dufresne’s personal life and family relationships. The availability and accessibility of these records vary depending on the jurisdiction and time period, requiring researchers to navigate different archives and databases to uncover relevant information. However, the potential insights offered by public records make them an essential resource in the quest to uncover historical truths and build a comprehensive picture of individuals’ lives.
5. Historical Context
Understanding the historical context surrounding Ed Dufresne’s life is crucial for accurately identifying his first wife and interpreting related information. Social norms, legal frameworks, and record-keeping practices varied significantly across different eras and locations. These factors directly influence the availability and interpretation of genealogical data. For example, marriage records from the 19th century might contain different information than those from the 20th century, and access to these records might be governed by different regulations. Considering the specific historical context in which Dufresne lived allows researchers to tailor their search strategies and interpret findings accurately. If Dufresne lived in a rural area with limited record-keeping, relying on oral histories and family narratives might be more fruitful than searching for official documentation. Conversely, if he resided in a large city with well-established record-keeping practices, official documents would likely be more readily available. The historical context also informs the interpretation of social relationships. Common-law marriages, for example, might have been prevalent in certain times and places, influencing how marital status is documented or perceived.
Furthermore, historical events can significantly impact genealogical research. Wars, natural disasters, and migrations can displace populations, destroy records, and disrupt family structures. Researchers must consider these factors when tracing family lineages. For instance, if Dufresne’s family was displaced by a natural disaster, vital records might have been lost or destroyed, making it more challenging to trace his first wife. Economic conditions and social attitudes also play a role. Economic hardship might lead to fragmented families and incomplete records. Social stigmas surrounding certain relationships might result in underreporting or misrepresentation of information in official documents. Understanding the prevailing social and economic conditions during Dufresne’s lifetime provides crucial context for interpreting available information and pursuing further research avenues. Examining the historical context also helps differentiate between individuals with similar names. If multiple individuals named Ed Dufresne lived in the same area during the same period, distinguishing between them requires careful consideration of historical details, such as birth dates, occupations, and family connections. This emphasizes the importance of meticulous research and cross-referencing information from multiple sources.
In conclusion, historical context is not merely background information; it’s an integral component of genealogical research. It shapes research strategies, informs the interpretation of findings, and helps overcome challenges posed by incomplete or ambiguous records. By meticulously considering the historical context surrounding Ed Dufresne’s life, researchers increase the likelihood of accurately identifying his first wife and gaining a deeper understanding of his personal history within its broader historical framework.
6. Biographical Data
Biographical data provides a crucial framework for understanding an individual’s life history, and in the case of identifying Ed Dufresne’s first wife, it serves as a roadmap for directing research efforts. Biographical information encompasses a wide range of details, including birth and death dates, places of residence, occupations, family relationships, and significant life events. This data offers potential avenues for uncovering information about Dufresne’s first marriage and the identity of his spouse. For example, if biographical data reveals Dufresne’s involvement in a specific community or organization, researchers can explore records associated with that group, potentially uncovering details about his family life. A biography mentioning Dufresne’s residence in a particular town during a specific period allows researchers to focus their search for marriage records within that jurisdiction.
The importance of biographical data as a component in identifying Dufresne’s first wife lies in its ability to provide context and generate leads. A well-researched biography might mention his wife’s name, even if only in passing. More often, biographical information offers indirect clues. Details about Dufresne’s social circle, professional affiliations, or geographic location can lead researchers to other sources, such as newspapers, local histories, or organizational records, which might contain further information about his family. Consider a hypothetical example: if Dufresne was a prominent businessman, local newspapers from the period might have reported on social events he attended with his wife, offering potential glimpses into her identity. Even seemingly insignificant details, such as membership in a social club, can provide valuable leads by connecting Dufresne to a specific community and its associated records.
Successfully leveraging biographical data requires careful analysis and a thorough understanding of available resources. Challenges arise when biographical information is scarce, conflicting, or inaccurate. Researchers must critically evaluate sources, cross-reference information, and remain alert to potential biases or omissions. The absence of explicit mention of a first wife in readily available biographical data does not necessarily indicate she did not exist; it highlights the need for deeper investigation using a wider range of resources, including genealogical databases, public records, and oral histories. Ultimately, biographical data, combined with other investigative methods, provides a crucial foundation for constructing a comprehensive picture of Ed Dufresne’s life and potentially revealing the identity of his first wife.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the identification of Ed Dufresne’s first wife. Given the complexities of genealogical research, several challenges and misconceptions can arise. The following questions and answers aim to clarify these points and provide guidance for those seeking information about this aspect of Dufresne’s life.
Question 1: Why is it difficult to determine the identity of Ed Dufresne’s first wife?
Several factors can contribute to this difficulty. Historical records can be incomplete, fragmented, or inaccessible. Variations in naming conventions, common-law marriages, and informal record-keeping practices can further complicate research. The passage of time can also obscure details and lead to the loss of information.
Question 2: What are the primary sources for finding this information?
Key sources include marriage certificates, census records, vital records (birth and death certificates), church records, obituaries, cemetery records, court records (divorce decrees, probate records), land records, military records, and immigration/naturalization records. Biographical information can also provide valuable clues and context.
Question 3: Are online genealogical databases reliable for this type of research?
Online databases can be valuable tools, offering access to digitized records and search capabilities. However, their accuracy and completeness vary. Information should be corroborated with other sources whenever possible. It’s essential to critically evaluate information found online and consider the source’s reliability.
Question 4: How does historical context affect the search?
Historical context, including social norms, legal frameworks, and record-keeping practices, significantly impacts the search. Understanding the specific historical period in which Dufresne lived helps researchers interpret records accurately and develop appropriate search strategies.
Question 5: What challenges might researchers encounter?
Challenges include incomplete or inaccurate records, variations in naming conventions, difficulty accessing records, and distinguishing between individuals with similar names. Researchers must be prepared to navigate these challenges and critically evaluate available information.
Question 6: What if no definitive record of a first wife is found?
The absence of a readily apparent record doesn’t necessarily mean Dufresne didn’t have a first wife. It could indicate that records have been lost, misfiled, or are inaccessible. It highlights the need for exhaustive research and the consideration of alternative sources, such as family histories and oral traditions.
Successfully researching historical figures requires patience, persistence, and a thorough understanding of available resources. By systematically exploring various sources and carefully evaluating available information, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of individuals’ lives and their place in history.
Further sections will explore specific research strategies and resources relevant to uncovering information about Ed Dufresne’s life and family history.
Tips for Researching Ed Dufresne’s First Wife
Successfully researching historical figures like Ed Dufresne requires a systematic approach and awareness of available resources. The following tips offer guidance for navigating the complexities of genealogical research and maximizing the chances of uncovering information about Dufresne’s first wife.
Tip 1: Start with the Known. Begin by compiling all known information about Ed Dufresne, including his birth and death dates, places of residence, and occupations. This foundational knowledge provides a framework for directing further research efforts.
Tip 2: Explore Vital Records. Obtain copies of Dufresne’s birth and death certificates. These documents may offer clues about his parents, siblings, and other family members, potentially leading to information about his first wife.
Tip 3: Utilize Census Records. Census data can place Dufresne in specific households at particular times. Examining the individuals listed with him can reveal potential family connections and offer clues about his marital status.
Tip 4: Search Marriage Records. Focus research efforts on marriage records within the jurisdictions where Dufresne resided. Marriage certificates provide definitive proof of marriage and identify spouses by name.
Tip 5: Consult Public Records. Explore court records, land records, military records, and immigration/naturalization records. These documents can reveal valuable information about family relationships, property ownership, and other relevant details.
Tip 6: Consider Historical Context. Awareness of the social norms, legal frameworks, and record-keeping practices of the time period is essential for interpreting records accurately and developing effective search strategies.
Tip 7: Explore Online Genealogy Databases. Utilize online databases like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org to access digitized records, build family trees, and connect with other researchers. However, remember to verify information found online with other sources.
Tip 8: Consult Local Resources. Local historical societies, libraries, and archives often hold valuable collections of regional records, including family histories, local newspapers, and other relevant documents.
By employing these research tips, individuals can systematically investigate Ed Dufresne’s life and increase the likelihood of uncovering information about his first wife. Thoroughness, attention to detail, and a willingness to explore various sources are crucial for success in genealogical research.
The following conclusion summarizes the key findings and offers suggestions for further research.
Conclusion
The pursuit of information regarding Ed Dufresne’s first wife necessitates a multifaceted approach, encompassing genealogical research, historical analysis, and meticulous examination of diverse records. Marriage certificates, census data, public records, and biographical information each offer potential avenues for uncovering her identity. Challenges inherent in historical research, such as incomplete records and variations in naming conventions, require researchers to employ critical thinking and corroborate findings across multiple sources. The historical context surrounding Dufresne’s life provides an essential framework for interpreting available data and developing effective research strategies. Successfully tracing familial connections requires not only access to relevant records but also an understanding of the social, legal, and cultural norms of the relevant historical period.
While definitive identification may remain elusive depending on available documentation, the research process itself illuminates the complexities of reconstructing individual lives from historical fragments. Each piece of discovered information contributes to a broader understanding of Dufresne’s personal history and the historical context in which he lived. Continued exploration of available resources and collaborative research efforts hold the potential to further illuminate this aspect of Dufresne’s life and contribute to a more complete picture of his personal history. The search for Ed Dufresne’s first wife serves as a reminder of the ongoing nature of historical inquiry and the importance of persistent investigation in uncovering the stories of individuals from the past.
